Kariba Youth Indaba Empowers Young People to shape Their Future
25June 2026
By Fadzai Hellen
Kariba, Zimbabwe |
Young people from across Kariba District gathered at Nyamhunga last week for the Kariba District Youth Indaba, an interactive platform aimed at amplifying youth voices and encouraging meaningful participation in issues affecting their lives and communities.
The Indaba brought together representatives from government ministries, the Zimbabwe Youth Council (ZYC), the Municipality of Kariba, development partners, community leaders and civic organisations, including Patsaka Organisation and Tonywaite Organisation.
The meeting created a safe space for young people to engage directly with duty bearers, raise concerns and contribute ideas towards sustainable solutions for challenges facing today's youth.
Discussions centred on key thematic areas, including climate change, youth and child rights, health, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Speaking during the climate change session, participants expressed concern over the increasing impact of changing weather patterns on livelihoods and communities, calling for greater youth involvement in environmental conservation and climate resilience initiatives.
Health issues also featured prominently, with many participants acknowledging that limited access to information and low participation in awareness programmes often prevent young people from accessing essential health services and exercising their rights.
"As young people, we sometimes fail to attend programmes where important information is shared. As a result, many of us remain unaware of the services and opportunities available to us," said one participant.
Officials from the Municipality of Kariba outlined various youth empowerment initiatives currently available in the district but noted that participation by young people remains low.
"We continue to create platforms and opportunities for young people, but attendance is often disappointing. We encourage youths to take advantage of these opportunities to access information, participate in decision-making and benefit from available programmes," a municipal representative said.
Participants also received information on youth-friendly health services available at local health facilities, where young people can access confidential health information, counselling and support.
Many attendees welcomed the interactive nature of the Indaba and appealed for similar engagements to be held more regularly.
"These discussions give us the confidence to openly talk about the challenges we face. Today we learnt about services and opportunities that many of us didn't even know existed," another participant said.
The meeting further revealed that many young people were unaware of programmes being implemented by community-based organisations such as Tonywaite Organisation and Patsaka Organisation.
"We didn't know organisations like Tonywaite are offering programmes that directly benefit young people. More awareness campaigns are needed so that more youths can participate," one attendee remarked.
Representatives from Patsaka Organisation reaffirmed their commitment to youth empowerment by highlighting services available at the organisation's community library and ICT centre.
"Our doors are open to everyone. Young people can use our community library, access computers, conduct research, develop digital skills and connect to the internet at affordable rates. We encourage all youths to take advantage of these facilities," a Patsaka Organisation representative said.
The District Youth Indaba concluded with stakeholders pledging to strengthen collaboration with young people and ensure that youth voices remain central to local development initiatives.
Participants left the meeting with increased knowledge of available services, empowerment opportunities and support systems, while calling for more regular engagements that promote youth participation and leadership across Kariba District.
Kasambabezi FM remains committed to providing a platform where community voices are heard and development issues affecting young people are brought to the forefront. The station encourages youths to actively participate in community programmes and discussions that shape the future of Kariba.
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